Lifts are a highly useful part of everyday life. When used properly, elevators are a safe and easy way to travel between floors; however, there are some risks involved with using lifts and escalators.
Nearly 10,000 people require a trip to A&E each year due to accidents involving lifts and escalators. Knowing the risks, and what to look out for can help keep us and our children safe from harm:
- Falls: The most dangerous, and most likely cause of death involving falls on elevators involves falling into an elevator shaft when the doors are open when no elevator is on that floor. This is a very rare occasion though; the most common fall injuries occur from tripping due to the lift not resting flush with the floor in which it is landing on. Around 75% of lift injuries are caused by falls.
- Getting Caught: The most serious, and fear inducing escalator risk, accounting for around 20% of injuries, is being caught in between the bottom or top of an escalator and sidewall. This is a particular risk for small children, as they can get their hands, shoes, clothing caught in the moving parts of an escalator. When riding an escalator of lift you should always make sure all clothing stays away from any moving mechanisms.
- Malfunctions: Injuries have been reported when lifts and escalators have malfunctioned and quickly sped up or reversed direction. This demonstrates the importance of regular maintenance to ensure any future faults are dealt with in a timely manner.
- Germs: The hidden danger of lifts and escalators is the fact that they are some of the germiest public places. Lift controls are used daily by a large number of people, meaning they can harbour a whole host of different germs.
It is advised you don’t touch handrails as much as possible and to carry hand sanitiser.
Regular lift maintenance is essential for avoidable injuries, and ensuring your clientele stay safe when visiting your business.